As F1 team Red Bull Racing snap ties with Christian, mid-day highlights the events that led to the former team principal’s ouster
Christian Horner. Pics/Getty Images
1. Horner joined Red Bull when it formed in 2005. Horner was at the helm as it transformed from an operation of 450 personnel, to one of over 1500 today that has won eight drivers’ titles and six constructors’ championships.
2. As the team entered 2024, Horner was accused of inappropriate behaviour by a female colleague. Horner denied any wrongdoing and was subsequently exonerated by an independent investigation.
3. The controversy eventually also exposed rifts within the team. There was an internal power struggle between Horner and parent company, Red Bull GmbH, and between Horner and Verstappen’s father, the former F1 driver Jos, who was openly calling for him to be sacked.
4. Red Bull’s longstanding motorsport advisor Helmut Marko, a friend to the Verstappens, was, at one stage, under threat of suspension, prompting Verstappen in turn, to threaten to also leave in March 2024.
5. The rising tension in the team saw their performance declining. Finally, after a poor British Grand Prix, Horner, 51, was sacked as team principal on July 9, 2025.
6. Horner’s contract, which was due to run until 2030, concluded on Monday with reports suggesting he will receive up to £80 million (Rs 953.94 crore) as part of a pay-out.
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